Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos issued a plea on Wednesday, December 27, urging cities and municipalities to rigorously enforce local ordinances prohibiting the use of harmful fireworks as the tally of fireworks-related injuries reached 75 just days before New Year’s Eve.
With at least 1,210 local government units (LGUs) having ordinances in place against harmful firecrackers, Abalos emphasized the need for implementation.
“Make sure that these ordinances are enforced. Let’s put teeth into these ordinances against dangerous fireworks,” Abalos said.
Highlighting the importance of local action, Abalos added, “These policies are meaningless if we do not implement them in our barangays.”
Despite a 2017 executive order limiting firecracker use to community displays, individual fireworks displays persist, leading to concerns about safety and injuries.
The Department of Health’s latest report reveals that almost all fireworks-related injuries occurred at homes and on streets, primarily affecting males. Illegal firecrackers accounted for about 60% of cases.
In line with safety concerns, the environmental group EcoWaste Coalition encourages the public to embrace a safer and environmentally friendly New Year by refraining from using firecrackers.